MAINTAIN A SUITABLE LEVEL OF HYDRATION
A number of factors including dry weather and excessively frequent cleansing can cause dehydration of the skin, while infrequent changing of the diaper may cause excessive hydration and the development of bacteria and fungi.
* Apply baby powder regularly to absorb excessive moisture.
* Change diaper frequently and clean soiled areas with mild cleansers.
* Apply moisturizers regularly to areas of dry skin.
REDUCE FRICTION
Friction between skin and clothes, diapers, or another skin surface is a common problem during the early stages of development.
* Separate the surfaces: in the case of clothing, soft, loose-fitting garments should be preferred over tight, coarse fabrics.
* Apply lubricants such as baby powder or oils between opposing surfaces to reduce friction.
MINIMIZE CHANGES IN BACTERIAL FLORA
Microbial colonization of the infant’s skin begins immediately after birth. The bacterial flora rarely cause infections unless the skin has an open wound or its natural acid mantle has been damaged.
* Take proper care of open wounds, e.g., the umbilicus or circumcision sites.
* Clean the infant’s skin thoroughly with a mild and pH-balanced baby bath.
AVOID EXCESSIVE EXPOSURE TO THE SUN
Because of the relative lack of melanin, infants are extremely susceptible to sunburn and thus to a number of problems related to the drying out of the skin.
* Limit the infant’s exposure to the sun, and avoid any exposure between 10 am and 2 pm.
* Dress infants in a wide-brimmed hats and loose protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and long trousers.
* Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 and titanium dioxide.